Real Estate Word of the Day: Acre
Historically, the term acre came about in the Middle Ages to roughly describe the area of land that could be ploughed in one day by a yoke of oxen. The word 'acre' was derived from the Old English word 'æcer,' meaning "open field." Today, the acre is used to measure large areas of land. Aside from the United States, its use in other parts of world (including where it originated) has declined significantly in favor of other systems of measurement. In the United Kingdom for example, its use is no longer permitted since 1995's Weights and Measures Act of which instated the hectacre as the main measurement for large areas of land. This is the case in many other European countries as well. The acre is, however, still used in several former colonies of the British Empire such as India, Sri Lanka, Jamaica, Ghana, and the Virgin Islands, among many others.
In real estate, an acre is a great unit of measurement when it comes to dealing with very large land properties; acres can be used to describe the property rather than square feet. Many times, the word 'acre' or 'acres' is used to emphasize the magnitude of an area. Here on Staten Island, the neighborhood of Shore Aces was given this name by prominent real estate developer Cornelius G. Kolff in the 1930's to promote an enclave of newly built high-end homes. Today, Shore Acres has become renowned for its quiet atmosphere, abundant large trees, and waterfront homes. Fun fact: According to the Staten Island Historical Society, Kolff also helped to develop several other neighborhoods in Staten Island including Emerson Hill and Woods of Arden.
Looking to buy or sell your home on Staten Island? For all your real estate needs, look no further than Tom Crimmins Realty! Give us a call at (718) 370-3200, and we can provide you with professionally-trained agents who are flexible to all that you’re looking for!
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